Braid Chopping Incidents Trigger Protests In Kashmir

Srinagar, Oct 5 ——— The continued incidents of braid chopping and braid cutting rumors triggered protests and clashes in several parts of Kashmir Valley on Thursday during which police used teargas canisters to disperse the agitating crowds.

The first incident of braid chopping was reported from Samboora area of Pampore in Pulwama district where locals claimed that they have nabbed an accused but forces came to rescue him. The incident triggered massive protests and clashes in the area during which government forces used pellets against the protesters, the local residents said, adding that the situation remained tense throughout the day in the area.

The nearby Pulwama Town was also on boil since morning as students blocked the road in the Main Market against the braid cutting incident at Washbugh last night. Locals also joined the protesters and within hours in morning, they engaged forces in pitched stone-pelting clashes. Police used teargas shells and also resorted to aerial firing to control the violent clashes. The situation remained tense throughout the day in Pulwama Town.

In north Kashmir’s Singhpora Pattan area of Baramulla, locals staged violent protests after braid of a woman was cut by two persons, of whom one was nabbed later after long chase by people. The locals also blocked main highway and staged protests. They clashed with police and raised anti-government slogans. The traffic service on the highway remained affected due to protests.

Two more incidents of braid chopping were reporting from Khwaja Bagh Baramulla and Nawdal Tral in Pulwama district. Meanwhile, police in a statement said that people are advised not to heed to rumours and beware of miscreants who are attempting to vitiate peace and order.

Preliminary investigation revealed that duo are labourers by profession and living in a rented accommodation in Pattan provided by local contractor. FIR has been lodged against rumour mangers who have been identified and one person has been arrested so far,” the police informed. (GNS)

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